Would It Be a Good Ending for Rey and Kylo Ren to Become Gray Jedi in Star Wars Episode IX?

The decision of the ending of Star Wars Episode IX has sparked much controversy and debate among fans. One of the questions that comes up is whether Rey and Kylo Ren could become Gray Jedi, a concept that has captured many imaginations. Let's explore this idea within the context of the Star Wars universe and the potential implications.

Gray Jedi: A Concept in Fantasy vs. Reality

To begin with, it is important to clarify the gray Jedi concept. In Star Wars, the Jedi order traditionally represents the light side of the Force, while the Sith embody the dark side. The idea of a gray Jedi—someone who seeks to balance both light and dark forces—seems like a natural progression for the idea of duality that has long been present in the story. However, it is worth noting that George Lucas, the creator, has not officially embraced this concept. In interviews, he repeatedly emphasized the permanence of the influence of the dark side, stating that 'a Jedi who falls to the Dark side and is redeemed will always be tainted by and susceptible to it.' This suggests that the idea of a true gray Jedi might be difficult to implement without significant changes to the established lore.

Kylo Ren’s Destiny

It is clear that Kylo Ren’s final path in Episode IX will likely be toward the darkness. Despite Rey’s desperate attempts to appeal to his better nature and Luke Skywalker’s heartfelt apology to him, it seems that Kylo Ren has embraced the path of the dark side, becoming a powerful and feared entity. His relentless pursuit of power and his transformation into a monster indicate that the journey to the dark side has conquered his soul. The notion that Kylo Ren could turn back to the light is becoming increasingly unlikely, as he seeks nothing but darkness. The idea of him choosing to die rather than return to the light reflects the depth of his transformation.

Rey: The Evolution of the Jedi Order

Rey, on the other hand, is not confined to the traditional Jedi mold. Her journey has been marked by emotional growth and the acceptance of forceful confrontation. Unlike Luke, who was meticulously trained by Yoda, Rey has had limited guidance. She has thrived under the tutelage of Kylo Ren and has developed a unique understanding of the Force. Her potential to become a gray Jedi or at least someone who seeks a balanced use of the light and dark sides lies in her already established character traits. Rey’s journey highlights the need for the Jedi order to evolve, and she is the natural candidate to lead this transformation. The inclusion of elements from the Legends canon, such as the whispers of the Force in The Rise of Skywalker, underscore the idea that balance and harmony could indeed be a path forward for the Jedi.

A Final Epic Battle or Accepting the Realities of the Saga?

Many fans would prefer to see a final epic battle between fully trained Rey and Kylo Ren, reminiscent of traditional fantasy storytelling. However, such an outcome would contradict the underlying themes of the Star Wars saga, particularly the stark contrast between light and dark. The series has repeatedly emphasized that Kylo Ren made his choice voluntarily and is continuing to do so. Ending the saga with both characters forsaking their paths would diminish the significance of their journeys and the struggle between light and dark throughout the films. It would also align with a vision that believes in the beauty of the surface but is fundamentally flawed, like the planet Canto Bight.

Conclusion

The concept of Rey and Kylo Ren becoming gray Jedi or a similar balanced entity is intriguing but faces significant challenges within the established canon. The paths of these characters have been laid out with the intention of embodying the archetypal struggle between light and dark. While it is possible that the film could introduce new elements that allow for such a resolution, it seems more likely that the saga will conclude with a stark reminder of the enduring battle between good and evil. The final moments of Episode IX serve as a powerful coda to the series, emphasizing the importance of this struggle and the responsibility of the heroes to maintain the balance within themselves and within the galaxy.